Results of Alberta Rockies Long Term Coal Mining

Massive coal mining in the Rocky Mountains, particularly open-pit operations, could have severe consequences for Alberta’s water supply, as the region is the source of major rivers that provide drinking water, irrigation, and industrial use for millions of people.

Potential Effects on Alberta’s Water Supply 1. Water Contamination • Open-pit coal mining exposes large amounts of rock to air and water, leading to the release of selenium, arsenic, and heavy metals into rivers and streams. • Selenium contamination is already a major issue in mining areas, such as in British Columbia’s Elk Valley, where it has harmed fish populations and made water unsafe for consumption. 2. Reduced Water Availability • Coal mining requires significant water use for processing and dust suppression, reducing river flow. • The destruction of headwaters and wetlands can permanently lower water tables and affect aquifers, leading to chronic water shortages. 3. Sediment Pollution and Erosion • Mining activities disturb large areas of land, increasing sediment runoff into rivers, which affects water clarity and aquatic ecosystems. • This sediment buildup can reduce reservoir storage capacity, affecting Alberta’s ability to store and distribute water efficiently.

Predicted Water Situation in Alberta After 30 Years of Coal Mining

If large-scale coal mining continues unchecked for three decades, Alberta could face severe long-term water shortages and water quality degradation: • Declining water security: Rivers such as the Oldman, Bow, and Red Deer could experience significant flow reductions, affecting cities like Calgary, Lethbridge, and Edmonton. • Worsening droughts: Climate change combined with water overuse from mining could lead to prolonged drought periods, hitting farmers and ranchers the hardest. • Unsafe drinking water: Higher concentrations of selenium and heavy metals could make water unsafe for human consumption, requiring costly treatment plants. • Loss of aquatic life: Fish species like trout, already struggling due to warmer temperatures, could face population collapse due to pollution.

Conclusion

If coal mining expands in Alberta’s Rockies, the province risks facing an irreversible water crisis within 30 years, with widespread consequences for human health, agriculture, and the environment. To avoid this, stronger water protections and renewable alternatives must be prioritized over short-term economic gains from coal.

Is it worth it?